Not since October last year have Georgie Smith's fans seen their man in action - but now a British title fight looms on the horizon.

Defending his IBO Inter-Continental title against Scotsman Charlie Kane at Southend, a lack-lustre display saw Smith lose his title on points to a gallant opponent who had brushed aside ring-rust to signal Smith's second professional defeat.

That setback signalled the beginning of a long period of inactivity for Smith but now, things are certainly looking up for the Basildon-based boxer.

The recent birth of Tommy - his second son - was undoubtedly a much-needed boost, and now he is lined up for a ring return at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Tuesday evening. His opponent will be journeyman Shaun O'Neill from Sunderland.

A win - and a good performance - is vital, for this contest is to be a warm-up fight for the British title next month in Carlisle.

Illnesses and injuries have dogged a career that looked so promising a couple of years ago, so Smith is in no doubt about the importance of this fight: "To be honest, I took a break after losing to Kane. Then I put on a bit of weight over Christmas," he said.

"It was really hard going to motivate myself to get back into training but, when I did, Alex Gower, my trainer, told me that Barry Hearn had fixed me up for a British title fight on July 31.

"The fight against O'Neill will be a warm-up prior to the title bout. That suits me. It will give me the opportunity to boost my confidence."

In Carlisle, Smith will face the champion, Derek Roche. The fight will be screened live on Sky TV.

For ticket details, contact Matchroom Boxing on 01708 782200.

Picture, top: Georgie Smith celebrates winning the IBO Inter Continental title. Now he is aiming for a British title shot.

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